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Precursor Identity and Surfactant Concentration Influence Shape of UO2 Nanoparticles
Sheridon N Kelly1,2, Dominic R Russo1,2, Trevor Arino2,3
1Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States.
Inorganic Chemistry
|April 11, 2025
Summary
Controlling the shape of uranium dioxide (UO2) nanoparticles is key for studying actinide nanomaterials. This research shows that low surfactant concentrations and specific precursors like U(hfa)4 yield anisotropic nanocubes, while higher concentrations produce spheres.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Actinide Chemistry
Background:
- Actinide nanomaterials possess unique properties.
- Controlling nanoparticle shape is crucial for their study.
- Uranium dioxide (UO2) is a key actinide material.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of precursor identity and surfactant concentration on UO2 nanoparticle shape.
- To achieve controlled synthesis of anisotropic UO2 nanoparticles.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of UO2 nanoparticles via thermal decomposition.
- Utilized oleylamine and oleic acid as surfactants.
- Characterization using TEM, EDS, ED, and XAFS spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Low surfactant concentrations yielded anisotropic UO2 nanocubes (~4 nm).
- Increased surfactant concentration led to isotropic spherical nanoparticles.
- The precursor U(hfa)4 was essential for nanocube formation.
- XAFS spectroscopy revealed differences in disorder between anisotropic and isotropic nanoparticles.
Conclusions:
- Precursor choice and surfactant concentration are critical for controlling UO2 nanoparticle morphology.
- Anisotropic UO2 nanocubes can be synthesized using specific precursors and conditions.
- Understanding nanoparticle shape influences properties and potential applications.
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